Key facts
- President Donald Trump signed an order to restrict the export of critical minerals scrap, including old batteries and electronic waste.
- The order aims to boost domestic recycling and reduce reliance on foreign suppliers, especially China.
- Federal officials will be empowered to block the export of such materials.
- The Commerce Department will be authorized to issue rules to implement these restrictions.
President Donald Trump signed an order on Thursday that grants federal officials the authority to block the export of old batteries and other electronic waste containing critical minerals. This directive is part of a larger strategy to enhance domestic recycling capabilities and diminish China's influence over materials essential for national security.
The presidential determination empowers the Commerce Department to establish regulations that will prevent the common practice of sending "e-waste" overseas. The White House views processed critical minerals and their derivative products as foundational to the U.S. economy and national security, citing vulnerabilities in global supply chains and market distortions caused by foreign suppliers. The order seeks to mitigate risks associated with import dependencies, geopolitical tensions, and potential supply chain shocks.